“We started doing this three years ago as a money maker for costumes for DBII,” says Carol Jean Heller, Dayton Ballet School administrator. “Our students never have to pay for a costume when they perform.” She estimates that between 75 to 100 shoes are sold each year. “Last year we bought 32 tutus and 16 dance dresses with our proceeds,” she says.
Heller said they try to use themes with the decorating. “Nutcracker shoes are sold for $25 because the decoration takes more time and is exclusive for Nutcracker,” she explained. For The Nutcracker, shoes range from candy cane to mice themes. The others, decorated with ribbons, bows and sequins, sell for $20.
Heller said the first time they decorated shoes was one day at the studio when artistic parents gathered to experiment.
“It was really fun to see all the creative ideas,” she said. “It kind of morphed into some of our creative young dancers having decorating parties.”
Cindy DeLon, Parent Association president and an artist herself, oversees and collects all the finished pointe shoes. You’ll find them on display and for sale at the Nutcracker Boutique at all Dayton Ballet performances. Between performances, if you’re interested in purchasing the decorative shoes, call the Dayton Ballet School at (937) 228-1542.
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